Vancouver

Wildlife Tours

Bald Eagles in a tree

Though Vancouver is a large metropolitan city, wildlife thrives its countless green spaces and parks.

Vancouver lies between mountains and ocean and shares its space with geese, herons, eagles, hawks and countless squirrels and chipmunks. Larger creatures such as raccoons, skunks and the occasional coyote can sometimes also be seen.

For those looking to escape the city for a few hours, whale-watching and marine wildlife tours depart or pick up from various locations in and around the city. Bear-watching tours and bird watching are other popular activities available just outside of Vancouver.

For self-guided wildlife experiences, explore Vancouver’s famous parks and beaches which are just minutes away from downtown.

Wildlife in Vancouver’s Parks

Vancouver's urban parks are home to many types of mammals, including chipmunks, squirrels and raccoons. They can often be seen while walking the trails and paths.

Stanley ParkWildlife thrives in this urban oasis, which is surrounded by ocean and comprised of old-growth trees and thick forest. Thousands of critters live in the park’s forest, lagoon, lakes and seaside. Around Lost Lagoon, look for swans, ducks, geese and other waterfowl or visit the Stanley Park Nature House and join a Discovery Walk or birding walk.

Burnaby Lake Nature ParkLocated a short distance from downtown Vancouver, this urban lake is a prime area for nature walks, wildlife viewing and outstanding bird watching. Paddle a canoe and watch for ducks, beaver and waterfowl, or visit the nature interpretive centre.

Wildlife Viewing along the Seawall and Beaches

A walk along Vancouver's many beaches and seawalls is sure to provide a variety of wildlife sightings.

Stanley Park SeawallLook for cormorants nesting in the cliffs along the seawall, and keep an eye out for harbour seals popping their heads out of the water near the shoreline.

West Vancouver SeawallAs cruises ships pass under Lions Gate Bridge, try to spot seabirds, eagles and other small mammals along this scenic stroll. The mouth of the Capilano River is the beginning of the salmon’s journey to the Capilano Salmon Hatchery – visit the hatchery for a self-guided tour.

False CreekWalking anywhere along this meandering foreshore is a treat in itself. Watch the waters for diving cormorants and harbour seals. Marine life can also be seen from the small passenger ferries that ply the waters between the shores of False Creek.

Vancouver Aquarium

Located in Stanley Park (an easy walk from downtown), the Vancouver Aquarium is dedicated to the conservation of aquatic life.

Wildlife viewing experiences include "Animal Encounters," where visitors can get up close and hands-on with a beluga whale, sea turtle, Pacific white-sided dolphins, Steller sea lions and sea otters. Take a stream tour and learn about the life cycle of Pacific salmon or visit the kids' favourite display – the hands-on touch pools.

There are more than 70,000 aquatic creatures here, representing more than 800 species, along with fascinating exhibits.

Grizzly Bears and Wolves

The Grouse Mountain Refuge for Endangered Wildlife is located about a half-hour drive from downtown Vancouver. This conservation, education and research centre also serves as the home to an array of wildlife native to the province.

The centre is home to two orphaned grizzly bears and several grey wolves. The bears can be seen roaming their 2-ha/5-ac mountaintop habitat, while the grey wolves live in a separate protected area at the base of the mountain.

For wildlife viewing tips and practical points and safety see the BC Wildlife Tours page.